Mark Keaton's Extension News: Think safety during the holidays

Proper care and safety with holiday lights and decorations could potentially save 400 lives each year. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, each year there are approximately 400 deaths, 1,650 injuries and nearly a billion dollars in damages during the holidays.

Incandescent holiday lights can generate a surprising amount of heat and pose a fire hazard, if there is faulty wiring, or if they are left on for too long. Make sure to turn the lights off when going to bed or away from home.

Other tips for holiday lighting include:

? Make sure light sets have been approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). The UL Listing Mark on a product label guarantees that representative samples of the product have been tested and comply with applicable UL safety requirements

? Be sure the light set is appropriate for the setting and approved for use

? Do not overload electrical circuits - that is, do not connect more than three light strands unless the directions indicate it is safe

? Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging them in

? Before mounting lights, check light sets for frayed wires, damaged sockets or cracked insulation. If any defects are found, replace the entire set

? If using a natural tree, be sure to keep it watered well and to keep lights and cords away from the water

? Keep a fire extinguisher handy and ensure smoke detectors are in good working order. Replace batteries if necessary

? Unplug indoor tree lights before watering the tree, and turn off all electrical decorations before leaving home or going to bed

? Use a ground fault circuit interrupter on each circuit for outdoor lighting. If current leaks through any damaged wires, the interrupter shuts it off

? Use timers and LED lights to conserve energy.

There are precautions to take with other decorations, as well:

? Make sure to use non-flammable or flame-retardant decorations and keep them away from heat sources. This is a good practice with wrapping paper, as well. Not only can the paper catch fire, but it can throw off sparks and embers that can start other fires

? Lit candles should be avoided. If they are used, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot easily be knocked down. Avoid putting lit candles on trees, which can be a major fire hazard. As with any holiday lighting, never leave the house with candles burning

? All open flames - candles, lighters, matches, etc. - should be kept away from trees and other decorations.

Have a safe and happy holiday season.

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Mark Keaton's Extension News: Think safety during the holidays

Proper care and safety with holiday lights and decorations could potentially save 400 lives each year. According to the U.S.